“Its exciting, I mean, this a totally new experience for this campus," said school president Kevin Drumm. "This is a transformational project for the college to become a residential campus after almost 70 years of being a commuter campus."

The residential staff were also excited to finally move in.

“We are so excited as RA’s to be seeing everybody finally moving in," said resident assistant Jocelyn Friend. "We have been working really hard and training really hard together to prepare for this big move in that is new for everyone here at SUNY Broome”

Parents were equally as excited to see the new dorms. However, the realization soon came that they could not stay with their child much longer.

“I got mixed emotions," said father Greg Burgess. "I know she’s going to do great. I am a little nervous leaving her here, but I know she will do fine on her own."

The dorms are apartment style with six-person suites, equipped with single rooms, double rooms, two bathrooms and a full kitchen.

Broome officials said they understand that living on campus can offer important experiences for students.

“When you live-in, its almost like getting another degree in the experience, the social interaction and the opportunity," added Drumm. "To be in the library more often, to work with your housing staff and your RA’s on a regular basis, is something that commuter students just don’t experience."

Overall, school officials, students and parents alike said they believe living on campus has its advantages.